theory
nounA set of statements or principles devised to explain a group of facts or phenomena, especially one that has been repeatedly tested or is widely accepted and can be used to make predictions about natural phenomena.
nounThe branch of a science or art consisting of its explanatory statements, accepted principles, and methods of analysis, as opposed to practice.
nounA set of theorems that constitute a systematic view of a branch of mathematics.
nounAbstract reasoning; speculation.
nounA belief or principle that guides action or assists comprehension or judgment.
nounAn assumption based on limited information or knowledge; a conjecture.
nounAt this point we may again for a moment turn aside to consider the so-called
Contemplation.
nounPerception or consideration of the relations of the parts of an ideal construction, which is supposed to render completely or in some measure intelligible a fact or thing which it resembles or to which it is analogous; also, the ideal construction itself.
nounAn intelligible conception or account of how something has been brought about or should be done.